AudioCircle
The Commercial Zone => Audio Shows and Events => Rocky Mountain Audio Fest => Topic started by: Tyson on 14 Oct 2012, 11:42 pm
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Holy cow what an awesome show it was this year! Best RMAF ever? From my perspective, hell yeah! I know, I know, I said that last year. And I meant it. And I mean it now too! Since the daily live coverage threads don't lend themselves very well to thoughtful reflection, we're going to try to do that here in this thread. Not that Pez or I are particularly thoughtful (especially Jason), but maybe we'll just try to hit some of the overarching impressions we had about the whole show here.
We'll also throw out there our list of "Best of RMAF", but in a separate thread, so look for that a bit later.
Biggest Changes
Fully LIVE coverage - For us personally, I think the biggest change was being able to do listening, photos, and commentary all live, in each room this year. We spent maybe 10 or 15 minutes in each room, and by the time we left we had taken all the photo's, uploaded them to photobucket, created a thread with the gear listed, general notes and listening impressions, and all the photo's from photobucket linked/posted. This was particularly great because we did not have to rely on our memory at all - no taking notes on a sheet of paper and then trying to decipher them later that night (or later that week).
And we were able to do our note taking in parallel, so we did not consult or compare our impressions with each other at all. We just wrote and posted, and only later did we even get to read what the other person thought of a particular room. As you can see, we agreed on a lot of rooms, but disagreed on even more! This should tell you that even 2 experience audiophiles, listening to the same music in the same system at the same time can come to radically different conclusions on the sound.
Room Treatments - Tons more vendors brought stuff this year and at least made an effort to actually treat their rooms acoustically. I'd say we saw room treatments in twice as many rooms as last year, maybe even three times as many. Vendors, this effort was not in vain! If it seemed like we posted a larger number of rooms with positive impressions and a fewer number of rooms with negative impressions that's because it's true! There were far less outright "sucky" rooms this year than in any other year, and far more "good to very good" rooms than in any previous year.
Recognition - Last year I was kind of bummed because we put so much effort into the show coverage and so few people seemed to be responding to it (either positively or negatively), we almost didn't do show coverage again. But this year we had a TON of people who saw us at the show and said "Thank you" and "Great job". That means a very great deal to us, and I just wanted to say THANKS, we really appreciate it. During the show we are pretty pressed for time, so might not have the chance to hang out and chat, but that doesn't mean we don't deeply appreciate the pat on the back. This is hard freaking work and its awesome to know that it's appreciated.
Imperviousness to Woo - In the past we were always interested in "what is the magic going on in these boxes". Or "Oh, that costs how much?" Or "Oh, that's so shiny and pretty!" But this year we did our homework and had created a list of vendors we HAD to hit and it was a big list (about 50). So we simply did not have time to talk to manufacturers about their gear, not if we wanted to get everyone covered. It led to an interesting result - we literally stopped caring about any of those things. We come in, take some pics, sit down, put on the music, take notes and post them and leave. And the system sounds good or it doesn't. If it does, we post why we liked it. If it doesn't, we post what about it we disliked. And we moved on. And when you are slamming through 50 rooms in 3 days (but still staying long enough to give each room a fair shot), your preconceptions drop away and your objectivity goes way up. The downside is the show is less "fun", but the upside is I feel pretty confident in what I posted on each room.
What Stayed the Same
The People! - As much as I like to bag on us audiophiles (and we are a doughy, pasty, mainly introverted bunch), every year the highlight is getting to meet up with and hang out with some very cool people. I mean, in a world where most people think we are insane, us audiophiles have to stick together! And I think I met more people at this show than I have at any other show before, tres coolio!! And of course hanging out with my best bud Jason is always a treat. I just wanted to give him a shout out because you people do not understand how much work he does with the photos. He is a great photographer and uses a big @ss, very heavy camera to get these shots and I know his back and shoulders are killing him by the 3rd day.
The Chaos - Even with a predefined list of vendors, pared down to 50, sorted by floor, then by room number and going methodically, floor by floor to hit each pre-chosen room, the show is just crazy. For every room we hit, we passed by at least 2. I wish we could have hit more rooms but we barely finished as it was. Maybe next year we'll start doing themes - only go into rooms with tube amps. Or don't go into any rooms that put a 6 inch driver and a 1 inch tweeter in a box. Or only rooms that play Vinyl, etc.... eh, we'll see. Honestly we are at our limit now, so if we try to hit new rooms and new vendors next year, some of the vendors from this years list will have to drop off. At least we have a year to think about it.....
Final, Final Thought - Don't let any of the above discourage you - if you get a chance to come to RMAF, THEN YOU MUST COME! It is 3 days of totally badass gear all set up by professionals and the ability to mix with other audiophools and hear in 3 days what most other people will never hear in a LIFETIME. So if you ever get even the smallest chance to come, DO IT!!!! :D
(http://i1216.photobucket.com/albums/dd370/pezacolypse/86deddfcefc711e9e526aa2d3fadac6a.jpg)
(http://i1216.photobucket.com/albums/dd370/pezacolypse/d46fb8254b331a45a1b4a56c7a1c0f6f.jpg)
Pez's Final Thoughts
Wow what an experience! Thank you all so much for your positive comments. This show takes all the energy we have to do, but every year it's worth it when we hear how much enjoyment you all get from it. I think it's starting to sink in with people that we don't always agree and get that this is a very subjective hobby. In the past at least once a year somebody always says that we are biased in someway when we don't like this or that or perhaps like a vendor for the 3rd year in a row. That's like stating that we are carbon-based lifeforms! We are biased. Everybody is biased. It's the fact that we have our own tastes that informs our bias. This year however I didn't hear 'you're biased' a single time. I think it's because this year people are starting to see that we don't always have consensus when it comes to what a room sounds like. This is key, we always say preference is king. Simultaneously though the systems that were phenomenal we always agreed on and the systems that were truly awful (way less this year) were also pretty much in agreement on.
live coverage
As Tyson said live coverage is a game changer. We are raw and in the moment when we are posting about what we are hearing. The logistics of live blogging is nothing short of a nightmare though. You have to be quick on your feet, you have to be almost mechanically regimented in the way you do things. Any sort of problem like iPad battery dying or camera flash battery dying or photobucket hanging up can literally be disastrous. Spare AA batteries, camera batteries, and yes even a portable iPad/iPhone battery charger were amongst the gear we took to every single room. And that doesn't even cover the fact that we had a back up computer waiting in the wings as well as 2 gear bags with other stuff that might be needed. Like I said a logistical nightmare. I saw other folks attempting to do similar things on day 1, but by day two I didn't see anyone doing it. :lol: That said I can't imagine going back to taking endless notes, pics, and brain racking thinking 'what was the name of that room, did I like that setup???' Plus I'm sure you all enjoy the benefits of riding along with us. :wink:
Room Treatments
This year vendors are starting to get it, not all of them but many more vendors who you normally hear saying 'ugh these rooms are so awful, it's really hard to get good sound out of them' were actually going the distance and DOING SOMETHING ABOUT IT!!!! Many vendors told us they did so because we specifically dinged them on that last show. As Tyson said the net benefit was that there were far less awful rooms.
CanJam
Sorry guys we had intended to do CanJam, but it became pretty obvious after day one that it would be impossible with how many rooms there were. Still, I'm disappointed we missed it all together. :(
You all
Whether we were posting with you online or sitting next to you enjoying tunes the people of AC are what make this show so fucking great every year. I love the gear, but the people are the reason this show is literally more exciting to me than christmas for a kid. Going out to lunch and dinner with everyone is phenomenal. Vendors and 'philes alike I always feel welcome amongst the AC crew. and as Tyson said this year was a turning point for us in that we were constantly hearing people say 'Hey Tyson and Pez, I'm _____ on audiocircle thanks for your hard work!!!' or getting PMs from you all just to say 'thanks' That feels incredible to hear. Thank you so much!
Thoughts on Tyson
I said it last year and I'll say it again this year. Tyson you are my best friend. This show would literally not be RMAF without you. Obviously the coverage would be hard/impossible but that's not it. I would feel like it wasn't the same show without you there to give me shit, to challenge me, and to just have a blast. So thanks man.
(http://i1216.photobucket.com/albums/dd370/pezacolypse/0666b7da6da81bc1f6d0c6997367a159.jpg)
My family
I want to end this with a recognition to my wife in particular as well as my daughters. Thank you for your patience and understanding when it comes to this hobby and me in general, but also specifically giving me the room to literally go on hiatus from being a full time Dad and just be audio nerd. :thumb: :thumb:
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Dudes, You rock. :rock: :rock: Thanks for all of your hard work. I thoroughly enjoyed your coverage. I get the insanity of the task so I won't bitch that you missed my favorite speakers--White Van Audio. :jester: :lol: :thumb:
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The Chaos - Even with a predefined list of vendors, pared down to 50, sorted by floor, then by room number and going methodically, floor by floor to hit each pre-chosen room, the show is just crazy. For every room we hit, we passed by at least 2. I wish we could have hit more rooms but we barely finished as it was. Maybe next year we'll start doing themes - only go into rooms with tube amps. Or don't go into any rooms that put a 6 inch driver and a 1 inch tweeter in a box. Or only rooms that play Vinyl, etc.... eh, we'll see. Honestly we are at our limit now, so if we try to hit new rooms and new vendors next year, some of the vendors from this years list will have to drop off. At least we have a year to think about it.....
I vote you just keep doing what you're doing 8)
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You inspire me Tyson!!! :hyper: Now if you'll just inspire my wallet, I could say hi and have a Scotch with you & the Dispenser of Truth at next years RMAF. Well on 2nd thought, make that a Crown Royal. :lol:
Cheers,
Robin
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(http://i1216.photobucket.com/albums/dd370/pezacolypse/RMAF%202012/0a63f8a5f70829a2250f9c3bbc01ea43.jpg)
I hope this light cord blinked in sync to the music.
Tyson and Pez, really enjoyed the coverage...I know how mind numbing it can be to try to cover a show like this with photos and comments and still try to take in the actual event in each room, and to keep going to the next room.
Sounds like room treatments at the show are the new trend, and it is really helping the rooms. Now they just need blinking light cords.
Looking forward to your best of the show categories.
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Was quite surprising, both your impressions of the active Emotiva speakers were quite positive. The Soundfield monitor 1 is very close in price (they weren't there huh?), but the Soundfield requires an amp for the top end. I'd love to see a shootout between those two, they seem very similar overall, otherwise.
However, the Emotiva's faceted enclosure is more advanced.
Still, you've punched them through onto my top 4 list for system 2 choices. Emotiva gettin' it done, love it.
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Guys, you did a really great job indeed, many thank from the UK.
I went to RMAF last year but because of some "issues" decided not to go this year. Reading your reports in real time made me whish I was there.
I visited both Munich and RMAF in a 12 month period, Munich is different than RMAF but both are absolutely essential for any serious audiophile. A visit to either (or both) show is more important than spending money on an upgrade, let alone some expensive cables! It appears, someone please jump in and tell me I'm wrong, that the UK forum guys don't go to either show, and if you don't how can you possibly have any sort of feel of what is out there ?
Your reports have made me consider room treatment. I expect it's too late, but what were exhibitors using, any better than others? Next year a room treatment special?
An as an introduction to my first post, I'm a tiny manufacturer (Timestep) situated in Dartmouth, Devon England. AC seems to be a great place to be!
Thanks
Dave
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Great job guys. I loved reading every post. I sure missed not going this year but this is the next best thing to being there.
:notworthy:
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Thanks guys! Very entertaining. You guys were so often in disagreement about how good/bad a system sounded what I took away from this is: different ears like different systems. Oh and treat your room (did mine this weekend!).
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Pez and Tyson,
The coverage of RMAF this year as in the past was awesome! You guy's did a crap ton of work and it shows! Cudo's for the blow by blow!
It was good to finally meet you both even briefly to put names to faces at The Lift.
Hope to see you again next year for more fun and excitement. The first audio show that I attended was in 1979. This is when I get to live and hang out with old and new friends and talk about my loved hobby!
Rock on guy's!
Best,
Rich
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Great work guys. I may never get to RMAF, but I at least have a sense of what it's like. :thumb:
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Through your endeaver I had a great time. Found both of your comments very entertaining and felt like you were giving it your all. I read every piece written and enjoyed every minute.
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SLAP! SLAP!
Just another big pat on the back each from me guys. Thanks!
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Thanks for your hard work guys!! That was the best show coverage I have ever seen. Nice to read about the sound and not just the manufactures name and price like so many of the rags do.
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You two really stepped it up a notch this year and I greatly appreciate it. WELL DONE! :thumb:
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Guys, I checked your threads several times last year and it was the same this year. I really enjoy reading about all you see and hear. Nobody puts more effort into getting info to those of us who can't be there. So from Minnesota, thanks for everything.
Ben
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Thanks for the pictures and commentary. You guys deserve all the kudos coming to you for your efforts! :thumb:
BTW Tyson, I am the person who asked that you guys visit the NAD room :roll:. The only piece that I was interested in was their M-51 DAC. However, after seeing all the rooms both of you visited, it now seems kind of naive on my part to expect you to have the time to single out one piece of gear.
Again, great job.
Regards,
Randy
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Your hard work was much appreciated guys, I thank you very much.
Like others have implied, those of us that can't make it to the show can live vicariously through you.
The fact the coverage was live this year made it feel so much so ....."real". :D
Thanks again!
Bob
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$hitskies. You guys were a “reviewing machine” this year. :o Consistent/ methodical (in a good way) approach to each room coupled with quality photos & unvarnished critiques made for a great 3 days worth of reading. I esp. liked your variety of music to fairly compare strengths/ weaknesses of each system you evaluated.
Judging by the 3,000+ views for each day of reporting, I have to say that your fellow Audiocircle members REALLY like your efforts.
Tyson & Pez, extraordinary job & a tip of the hat from us all ! 8)
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Excellent job on the show coverage, guys. The two of you have made an excellent contribution to this site and I always enjoy reading your reviews. Cheers Jack
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A BIG Thanks for your hard effort. For those of us not able to attend, your coverage brought it that much closer to home. :wink:
Now all we have to do is try and translate your personal tastes and preferences to what would be important to each of us.
Rocket_Ronny
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Judging by the 3,000+ views for each day of reporting, I have to say that your fellow Audiocircle members REALLY like your efforts.
Good point. In their three main review threads there are presently 9300 views. That speaks volumes. :thumb:
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Well done!! :notworthy: Excellent photos, witty and forthright commentary caught me laughing out loud occasionally. I didn't realize the logistics required to do the job. You needed a mule to carry all that stuff around. Thanks for the photo of yourselves. :thumb:
...Roy
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Just wonderful Thanks!
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I'm already planning to go next year, and I'm taking an artist friend that needs a lesson in speaker placement (!). Your coverage was the vehicle that made me realize what I'd missed this year and in past years as well. I'm definitely going next year, and hope to spot youse then. I won't involve the two of you in a big pointless discussion of vinyl versus digital or anything timeconsuming, but maybe we can enjoy some music together for a minute or 2! Thanks again for your efforts, and already I'm looking forward to Googling RMAF 2013 and getting the advance info! :thumb:
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Two Thumbs Up. You guys were the best of show!
The planning and excecution was a cut above everything else I read about RMAF. It was better than the Pro writers in my opinion.
Thank you so much.
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A word from your European readers guys. I made it to RMAF just once, in 09 and I'll never make it again. It is just too costly and time consuming, to get there from the UK. I have'nt been to Munich, but RMAF has to have been my best show experience, the friendliness, sheer size and variety of kit.
I agree with you, every HiFi nut should attend once in your life. Failing that your coverage gives a real impression of the sheer size and life in the event, that other reports, good as they maybe, don't. The difference I am sure is doing it all in realtime. It gives us a surrogate experience for being there ourselves.
You don't comment on the Software room, but I really was struck when I came, how few vendors of CDs and vinyl there were.
Thanks again David
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Two Thumbs Up. You guys were the best of show!
The planning and excecution was a cut above everything else I read about RMAF. It was better than the Pro writers in my opinion.
Thank you so much.
That about sums it up. Well said Cheeseboy! :D :D
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Real good, guys....but, don't get too frackin' SWELL-HEADED about it!
{kidding} :) Loved the coverage; like being there all over again.
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Did anyone mention superb photos and witty commentary?
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Great job, guys! the real-time commentary was a true plus this year.
And Dave Cawley -- welcome to AC!
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Awesome stuff. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience with those of us who were unable to attend.
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Guys,
Many thanks for sharing your efforts with those of us who could not attend. Great job.
Mud
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Hi Tyson and Pez
The coverage of the RMAF is much appreciated.
I am from the other side of the world and i can feel the excitement of the RMAF. !
Thanks
kp93300
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Gentlemen,
Many thanks for the coverage. Both the pics and commentary were excellent.
Jim
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Thank you so much for your efforts. you did a great job!.
Hey I had this idea bonking around in my head and wondered what you would think. I realize it would be a BIG pain in the butt and very exasperating but what do you think about trying this out??? Try visiting some rooms blindfolded. Doesn't have to be RMAF but I think it would be very interesting. Maybe go to rooms normally on one day. Have one of you blindfolded the second day and see what happens. Maybe not one of you, maybe you could get a guinea pig who has ears you trust and see how it goes? I think the results would be very fun and fascinating.
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Thank you so much for your efforts. you did a great job!.
Hey I had this idea bonking around in my head and wondered what you would think. I realize it would be a BIG pain in the butt and very exasperating but what do you think about trying this out??? Try visiting some rooms blindfolded. Doesn't have to be RMAF but I think it would be very interesting. Maybe go to rooms normally on one day. Have one of you blindfolded the second day and see what happens. Maybe not one of you, maybe you could get a guinea pig who has ears you trust and see how it goes? I think the results would be very fun and fascinating.
Thanks for volunteering to do this, we'll be super stoked to meet you at the next RMAF!
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Pez and Tyson,
I didn't attend this year, but happy you guys are local and go every year. As usual, excellent coverage and commentary. :thumb:
Cheers,
Paul Mah
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That about sums it up. Well said Cheeseboy! :D :D
+1 as long as we keep it in the spirit it was done - a quick impression - not the last word ...
Really appreciate the time and effort you put in for all to enjoy at your expense ...
Super thanks
Sunil
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From both me and Jason:
Thank you all!!!!!!!
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If we were blindfolded who would read the SPL meter we'd be carrying around? :scratch:
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Jason man, there's and app for that! It's a combo laser based walking cane and RTA in one!!!
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Very well done gentlemen. I really enjoyed the pictures and commentary. A massive effort well executed and appreciated. :thumb:
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Thanks for volunteering to do this, we'll be super stoked to meet you at the next RMAF!
Well you don't know me so can't trust me but I would be willing to do it. Unfortunately I have to hang out more in the cheap and cheerful section if you know what I mean. Wasn't trying to be a jerk. I do think it would be a fun experiment.
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Well you don't know me so can't trust me but I would be willing to do it. Unfortunately I have to hang out more in the cheap and cheerful section if you know what I mean. Wasn't trying to be a jerk. I do think it would be a fun experiment.
Since it's purely subjective all you need are two working ears. :P
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I tried to give fair shake to as many rooms as I could at RMAF and came away with a great appreciation for what Tyson and Pez accomplished this year. I happened to cross paths with them a couple times and watched them in action. They had carefully selected music, a clear sense of the musical and audio values they were listening for, and enormous energy and patience. AC members are very fortunate to have them doing heavy lifting for us. Agree with their judgments or not, their acuity and integrity deserve high praise.
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tull,
jtw is right. I built most of my system myself and it's way, way, way less expensive than just about anything we heard at the show. So all you need is good ears, a plane ticket, a hotel room, a blindfold, and the will!
Blindfold or not, you should come to RMAF, you get to hear so much stuff in such a short period of time and you get a very good idea of the boundaries of hifi. What I mean by that is this - there is a certain level of performance that has not (maybe cannot) be surpassed, and it's not all that far from what many might consider "mid-fi" gear.
Or, to put it another way, you will come to learn very quickly that with regard to the orgasmic praise heaped upon stupid expensive gear by professional audio reviewers is largely a result of them being full of shit.
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Or, to put it another way, you will come to learn very quickly that with regard to the orgasmic praise heaped upon stupid expensive gear by professional audio reviewers is largely a result of them being full of shit.
:lol: :thumb:
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blindfolded expect the photos to look like this...
(http://i1216.photobucket.com/albums/dd370/pezacolypse/21de12e5d06068b37a570a98e49c22be-1.jpg)
:P
Seriously though I don't think being blinded is a workable idea, nor do I think it's necessary or helpful. If I like a system I like it. I was blown away by the Emotiva and the Voxativ. One costs $2500 the other costs as much as a house. I'm interested in buying neither.
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Maybe as much as YOUR house, you 47 percenter.
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Thank you guys. I am a little humbled by your gracious remarks. I hope no one in any way interpreted my comments as though Pez and Tyson are not to receive every accolade they have and 10x more. I look forward to it each year and love and appreciate all the hard work they go through for people like me.
I guess what I was trying to say is I don't think I could afford the plane ticket or the hotel. I am actually unemployed right now so would appreciate your prayers if you believe in that.
I have some ok stuff and have built some Kits. I was a dealer many many years ago so I do have a little background and am hype savvy. I would love to hang out with Tyson and Pez but I am 53 and doubt I could keep up with them for more than 3 or 4 rooms!
Again please don't take my suggestion as anything more than wondering what would happen and hopefully all of us having some fun with it.
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Seriously though I don't think being blinded is a workable idea, nor do I think it's necessary or helpful. If I like a system I like it. I was blown away by the Emotiva and the Voxativ. One costs $2500 the other costs as much as a house. I'm interested in buying neither.
Umm, Dispenser of Truth, the Emotiva is $1500, and that includes the built in amps (400 watts, no less). Damn am I tempted by those.
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I just called Emotiva up, thanks to me they raised the price to $2500... You're welcome. :wink:
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My hero...
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I just called Emotiva up, thanks to me they raised the price to $2500... You're welcome. :wink:
Can you call them again and tell them to raise the price to $25,000? :D
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Well being that they bested most other speakers that cost around $20,000... :rotflmao:
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Well being that they bested most other speakers that cost around $20,000... :rotflmao:
In that case, maybe bring the price down to $15,000. Then they could sell a million pairs! :D :thumb:
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Blindfold or not, you should come to RMAF, you get to hear so much stuff in such a short period of time and you get a very good idea of the boundaries of hifi. What I mean by that is this - there is a certain level of performance that has not (maybe cannot) be surpassed, and it's not all that far from what many might consider "mid-fi" gear.
Or, to put it another way, you will come to learn very quickly that with regard to the orgasmic praise heaped upon stupid expensive gear by professional audio reviewers is largely a result of them being full of shit.
Well said! That certainly mirrors my own experience at RMAF and Newport. Thanks for all the great coverage. You guys helped to make up for not being able to attend this year.
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Hi Tyson and Pez,
I was at the show, but thoroughly enjoyed your coverage. It amped up the excitement, and was a good sanity check as well. And once I returned home, it was great to read your reports as a retrospective of all I had missed -- it's just too vast to hear everything.
You both must be exhausted, as I was wiped out just walking around the hotel, room to room, with the feeling that I'd never even see half of what's there. So thank you very much to you both.
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For me the best part was meeting you guys in person. Just good ol guys. BTW great work.
charles
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It was a "blast" meeting Tyson, Pez and all the AC'rs in person (HAL, SoCalJWS, Big Red Machine, jtwrace, Scottdazzle, Jonathan J, etc, etc, etc...) at RMAF. :thumb:
What a fun but exhausting time!
Cheers,
Pete :banana piano:
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It was a "blast" meeting Tyson, Pez and all the AC'rs in person (HAL, SoCalJWS, Big Red Machine, jtwrace, Scottdazzle, Jonathan J, etc, etc, etc...) at RMAF. :thumb:
Likewise! :thumb:
What a fun but exhausting time!
Yep, it's bizarre how tiring and mentally draining listening to many systems can be. Sure doesn't help that I choose to stay on east coast time and there is a bit of down time as the show starts late compared to East Coast time. :(
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I enjoy seeing you guys every year. You aren't the "EXCUUUUSSSEEEEEEMEE! I'm trying to listen here" reviewers that many are... and that is a good thing. We actually look forward to you coming in. Also, thank you for being open to our "Oooops, we screwed up and had a bad setting... Please come back and give a listen" call. It meant a lot to us. Shows are a PITA for getting it all right. That is especially true when there are all of us being territorial over our little part of the room.
That being said.....
I always enjoy reading your reviews. One of the things that I love about our industry is people like you (and most of the peeps here at AC). We truly LOVE what we do and do it because of that. I know what a time consumer your dedication can be. Tyson, I really liked your acknowledgement of your wife an daughters. My wife and two lovely daughters have made my life very special for over 40 years. They are what really matters.
Good job guys, as always. :thumb: :thumb: Thanks.
Dave
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Tyson and Pez,
Mahalo for your coverage.
Next year I suggest you create a separate thread for each room you visit, like they did over on http://www.audioaficionado.org/rmaf-2012-official-pictures/.
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Tyson, I really liked your acknowledgement of your wife an daughters. My wife and two lovely daughters have made my life very special for over 40 years. They are what really matters.
Good job guys, as always. :thumb: :thumb: Thanks.
Dave
That was me. :wink:
Any way we did not make a lot of exceptions for 2nd listens. We would have LOVED to do that, but time was very much limited and every room we visit twice leaves one room we don't visit at all. As a matter of fact we only did a 2nd visit for AC vendors! You guys help make this site great and we want to make sure you all get priority over the rest in the industry.
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That was me. :wink:
Any way we did not make a lot of exceptions for 2nd listens. We would have LOVED to do that, but time was very much limited and every room we visit twice leaves one room we don't visit at all. As a matter of fact we only did a 2nd visit for AC vendors! You guys help make this site great and we want to make sure you all get priority over the rest in the industry.
Whoa, I guess that I was still waking up when I read the post and mixed you two up. You look so much alike and all :green:
Anyhoo, I meant it. I meant what I said about you two doing a great job, too :thumb:
Dave
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Jason and Tyson....
(http://school.discoveryeducation.com/clipart/images/whale.gif)
Thanks for all the RMAF photos and comments....since I couldn't make it this year....this was almost as good as being there.
See you next year.... :beer:
Let me ask you....how was the attendance this year ?
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Thanks for the kudos! I heard reports that it was up, but my eyes told me it was down... Way down. It was actually easy to navigate the halls this year. Last year it was awful.
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Attendance was up, not down. Anyone that tries to convince you otherwise is involved in a CONSPIRACY to cook the books and mislead the American people.
Wow, that sounded exactly as stupid as I thought it would....
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when i think about going to rmaf, i realize i don't have to bother - pez and tyson will be there doing it for me! :thumb: :lol:
much appreciated, guys! :green:
doug s.
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Attendance was up, not down. Anyone that tries to convince you otherwise is involved in a CONSPIRACY to cook the books and mislead the American people.
Wow, that sounded exactly as stupid as I thought it would....
but true. :D
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but true. :D
Very, VERY true, indeed.
It is the Illuminati :o
Dave
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Pez and Tyson,
Stellar work fellas! I still think about RMAF 2012. I am not ready for it to fall into distant memories. If I may, I'd like to resurrect your thread, even if for a short time by sharing my experience at the show.
For you guys thinking you don't need to attend a RMAF because of how well these two guys cover the show is a mistake. Their coverage is spot on; this is true. Until they interview the manufacturers and post live coverage you are only getting half of the show. Cripes, I'd go every year just to chat with Dave Elledge. He is the nicest dude in the world. On top of that, putting faces to the AudioCircle names is truly the part that is most exciting. This year I met Pete (BigRedMachine) who kindly ushered me from the Salk room into the Fritz room. His blue amplifiers are gnarly! Pete, I never thanked you for the friendly gesture. Thank you!!
The SoundScape 8 is truly a wonderful speaker. They chameleons if you were to ask me. They have the ability to morph into well integrated 2-ways that throw a solid image and offer gobs of emotion. Then, they transform into large floor-standing speakers with what seems like limitless headroom without ever a hint of strain. I wish I had more time to listen to these. I brought my girlfriend this year so she could learn what the heck I am always obsessing about. I was nervous she would get disinterested in music tastes so I kept the sojourns short. I found myself back in the Salk room two more times that day to hear the SS8 again. Both times Jim's new 2-ways were playing. These guys weren't doing it for me on this day but it was a long day. I was always in the back row of the audience while listening. There was 4 to 8 people listening at all times so I couldn't even get close. I've heard Jim's speakers on a half dozen occasions and they always, without a doubt, perform above their price point.
The GR Research room is my favorite room to attend at RMAF. Some may not like the feel of the room the way it is setup but I love it. To me, it feels like a man cave done by a man. Not much of WAF in here. Danny's speakers were FUN to listen to. They reminded me ESLs (I know) because they added zero "flavor" or color to the music. I guess we would call them 'neutral'. That was impressive to me but not as impressive as <drum roll>, because these can play drums like no other, the bass. The second song played while I was in the room was a drum track. Oh boy, they were so much fun to listen to. I had this feeling that every time a kick pedal was hit I was back in my '94 Honda Accord with the 15" subwoofer playing. Talk about chest pounding. Danny has a winner with this guy. If 'neutral' is what you like these are pretty amazing. They are different than the SoundScape 8s. One would have to hear them both to determine which they prefer.
My most memorable stop at the show was the Vapor Sound rooms. I put one of the rooms as first on my list to visit. At this point in the day, I hadn't lost the test CD my girlfriend and I had made. :duh: We had the chance to play our CD while sitting front and center. My girlfriend's song choice was Chad Lawson's "Ballade in C Minor". I spoke up after 30 seconds into the song to ask her if she was OK. She hadn't said a word. Not like her. :scratch: I wasn't expecting her to sit and listen. That's all it took folks, 30 seconds into RMAF 2012 until she said, "I get it". The gentlemen running the room was super nice to us. I wish I remembered his name. Thank you for accommodating us. We then got to play a violin piece by Emily Palen called "Glass". I find the reproduction of Cirrus Black remarkable. Not perfect, but if I recall, there was a subwoofer being used in the room that didn't help in my opinion. Exiting the room she commented about how she didn't know speakers could do that.
It was at our stop in the other Vapor Sound room where I shedded my first RMAF tear, ever! As we were listening, my girlfriend commented, "...they sound so far away." That, I explained to her, after I wiped the side of my cheek, is "SOUNDSTAGE" sweetie. :Pretty awesome, huh?: This is the point where she asked how my speakers could be made more eye-friendly to move into her place. I could only equate the feeling I had to what parents must feel like when their babies are potty trained. I was so proud! Thank you Joule Black. :thumb:
We spent a lot of the show stopping at the uber-expensive rooms because I wanted to show her pretty speakers. She loved the Rockport Technology speakers the most for their looks. Go figure! They kind of look like mine (so I thought). She didn't agree. :nono:
Until next time guys, it was amazing!!
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Pez and Tyson,
Stellar work fellas! I still think about RMAF 2012. I am not ready for it to fall into distant memories. If I may, I'd like to resurrect your thread, even if for a short time by sharing my experience at the show.
For you guys thinking you don't need to attend a RMAF because of how well these two guys cover the show is a mistake. Their coverage is spot on; this is true. Until they interview the manufacturers and post live coverage you are only getting half of the show. Cripes, I'd go every year just to chat with Dave Elledge. He is the nicest dude in the world. On top of that, putting faces to the AudioCircle names is truly the part that is most exciting. This year I met Pete (BigRedMachine) who kindly ushered me from the Salk room into the Fritz room. His blue amplifiers are gnarly! Pete, I never thanked you for the friendly gesture. Thank you!!
The SoundScape 8 is truly a wonderful speaker. They chameleons if you were to ask me. They have the ability to morph into well integrated 2-ways that throw a solid image and offer gobs of emotion. Then, they transform into large floor-standing speakers with what seems like limitless headroom without ever a hint of strain. I wish I had more time to listen to these. I brought my girlfriend this year so she could learn what the heck I am always obsessing about. I was nervous she would get disinterested in music tastes so I kept the sojourns short. I found myself back in the Salk room two more times that day to hear the SS8 again. Both times Jim's new 2-ways were playing. These guys weren't doing it for me on this day but it was a long day. I was always in the back row of the audience while listening. There was 4 to 8 people listening at all times so I couldn't even get close. I've heard Jim's speakers on a half dozen occasions and they always, without a doubt, perform above their price point.
The GR Research room is my favorite room to attend at RMAF. Some may not like the feel of the room the way it is setup but I love it. To me, it feels like a man cave done by a man. Not much of WAF in here. Danny's speakers were FUN to listen to. They reminded me ESLs (I know) because they added zero "flavor" or color to the music. I guess we would call them 'neutral'. That was impressive to me but not as impressive as <drum roll>, because these can play drums like no other, the bass. The second song played while I was in the room was a drum track. Oh boy, they were so much fun to listen to. I had this feeling that every time a kick pedal was hit I was back in my '94 Honda Accord with the 15" subwoofer playing. Talk about chest pounding. Danny has a winner with this guy. If 'neutral' is what you like these are pretty amazing. They are different than the SoundScape 8s. One would have to hear them both to determine which they prefer.
My most memorable stop at the show was the Vapor Sound rooms. I put one of the rooms as first on my list to visit. At this point in the day, I hadn't lost the test CD my girlfriend and I had made. :duh: We had the chance to play our CD while sitting front and center. My girlfriend's song choice was Chad Lawson's "Ballade in C Minor". I spoke up after 30 seconds into the song to ask her if she was OK. She hadn't said a word. Not like her. :scratch: I wasn't expecting her to sit and listen. That's all it took folks, 30 seconds into RMAF 2012 until she said, "I get it". The gentlemen running the room was super nice to us. I wish I remembered his name. Thank you for accommodating us. We then got to play a violin piece by Emily Palen called "Glass". I find the reproduction of Cirrus Black remarkable. Not perfect, but if I recall, there was a subwoofer being used in the room that didn't help in my opinion. Exiting the room she commented about how she didn't know speakers could do that.
It was at our stop in the other Vapor Sound room where I shedded my first RMAF tear, ever! As we were listening, my girlfriend commented, "...they sound so far away." That, I explained to her, after I wiped the side of my cheek, is "SOUNDSTAGE" sweetie. :Pretty awesome, huh?: This is the point where she asked how my speakers could be made more eye-friendly to move into her place. I could only equate the feeling I had to what parents must feel like when their babies are potty trained. I was so proud! Thank you Joule Black. :thumb:
We spent a lot of the show stopping at the uber-expensive rooms because I wanted to show her pretty speakers. She loved the Rockport Technology speakers the most for their looks. Go figure! They kind of look like mine (so I thought). She didn't agree. :nono:
Until next time guys, it was amazing!!
Gosh, I'm verklempt and dont know what to say.... except "Thank you!"... :oops: I just love what we do and I guess it shows.
Again: THANK YOU!
Dave
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Gosh, I'm verklempt and dont know what to say.... except "Thank you!"... :oops: I just love what we do and I guess it shows.
Again: THANK YOU!
Dave
You're welcome Dave. And thank you. You were kind to me since day one.
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http://www.avshowrooms.com/RMAF_2012_Awards.html
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I've been singing praises to the Line Magnetic Audio tubes amps ever since I purchased one early this year. I see that in the Devore Fidelity Audio video, John is using a LM Audio set amp to demo his great speakers.
These are really good tube amps at affordable prices. Of course, Devore Speakers are crazy good as well!
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Did anyone happen to make it to the Elac/Burmester room?